A few years ago, real estate observers and housing market analysts in Sarasota were pondering when the city would experience its “SoFi” moment. SoFi is the shortened name of “South of Fifth,” the residential district of Miami Beach where you can find some of the most luxurious condominium towers in the world.

Sarasota’s SoFi moment has arrived thanks to ambitious and stylish projects such as the Epoch, which is scheduled for a grand opening in the next couple of years. Once completed, Epoch will not only be the largest residential structure built in the iconic Sarasota School of Architecture style but also the most luxurious in Southwest Florida.

Located on Bayfront Drive, north of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and with unobstructed views of the Sarasota Bay, Epoch will be an imposing tower of glass with very distinctive look. There will only be 24 units in this 18-level structure; the largest penthouses start at the 12th floor and offer more than 5,300 square feet of air conditioning. The wrap-around balconies will feature glass railings and nearly 2,000 square feet to enjoy; these ample terraces are perfect to decorate with stylish patio furniture and to enjoy sweeping views of the Sarasota Bay and the city skyline.

Everything about Epoch is upscale. The three and four-bedroom residences feature very spacious floor plans and plenty of upgrades such as high-end appliances, Jacuzzi, gallery space, designer kitchens, premium flooring and counter tops, private elevator, foyer with grand vestibule sitting area, extra dens, panoramic windows, and more. The amenities start with the rooftop pool terrace adorned with tropical landscaping; residents and their guests will also have access to exclusive lounge space, fire pit, cabanas, fitness center, private security, and 24-hour concierge service.

Most Epoch units have already been claimed way ahead of its grand opening; as of August 2018, a handful of listings were still available starting at $3.2 million, and prices have sharply appreciated since the project was first announced.

Epoch is part of the Laurel Park district of Sarasota, one of the most desirable in Southwest Florida. Famous restaurants such as Marina Jack, Owens Fish Camp and the O’Leary Tiki Bar and Grill are within walking distance, and the same goes for the Botanical Gardens and Bayfront Park. Driving to the beach at nearby Siesta Key takes only a few minutes.